Giresun Travel Guide

Plan your Giresun vacation with our comprehensive travel guide. From places to visit and things to do, to food and drink scene and accommodation options, we have got you covered!


Introduction to Giresun

Located in the heart of Eastern Karadeniz, Giresun is a port city in Turkey that serves as a gateway to picturesque villages and rugged mountains. The city has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Roman Empire.

Giresun is known for its lush green mountains, pristine beaches, and fantastic trekking routes, making it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers who are always looking for an action-packed itinerary.

List of Places to Visit in Giresun

There are plenty of places to visit in Giresun, catering to a diverse range of interests. From historical museums and ancient ruins to scenic beaches and natural wonders, there’s something for everyone in Giresun.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Giresun Castle: Built in the 2nd century AD by the Roman Empire, Giresun Castle is one of the best-preserved historical places in the city.
  • Giresun Museum: Featuring a collection of prehistoric artifacts, natural fossils, and ancient coins, the Giresun Museum is a must-visit for history buffs.
  • Bulancak Old Houses: These well-preserved Ottoman houses dates back to the 18th century and is an excellent place to get a glimpse into the Ottoman Era.

Natural Attractions of Giresun: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Aksu Creek: Surrounded by green mountains, Aksu Creek is a perfect place to enjoy nature in its undisturbed form.
  • Tasbasi Cultural Park: A beautiful park with picnic tables, playgrounds, and a man-made lake that offers stunning views of the city.
  • Gogceli Highlands: An excellent spot for trekking, Gogceli Highlands is a haven for adventure enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Giresun

Giresun is a utopia for trekking and biking enthusiasts. With fantastic routes, stunning views, and undisturbed wilderness, the city attracts tourists from all over the globe. Some of the best routes to explore are:

  • The Giresun-Golbasi Route is a challenging trekking route that takes you through rugged landscapes and lush green mountains.
  • The Bulancak-Hemsin Route is a scenic trek that starts at the seaside village of Bulancak and takes you through beautiful mountain-scapes.

Best Things to Do in Giresun: Activities and Tours

Giresun has plenty of unique and exciting activities to experience. Here are some of the best things to do in Giresun:

  • Visit the beautiful Giresun Island, located near the city center, and explore the rugged terrain and spectacular views.
  • Join a local fishing tour and experience firsthand how the locals catch fish in the Black Sea.
  • Take a dip in the pristine waters of Tirebolu Beach and enjoy a breathtaking sunset.

Week-Long Itinerary for Giresun

If you’re planning to spend a week in Giresun, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your vacation:

Day 1: Arrive in Giresun and explore the city center Day 2: Trek along the Gogceli Highlands Trekking Route. Day 3: Visit the Giresun Museum and explore the historical sites of the city. Day 4: Take a day trip to the picturesque village of Bulancak and explore the Ottoman Era houses. Day 5: Join a fishing tour and learn how to fish like the locals. Day 6: Trek along the Bulancak-Hemsin Route and enjoy stunning views. Day 7: Relax at the beach and enjoy a mesmerizing sunset at Tirebolu Beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Giresun

Giresun’s culinary culture is a mix of Turkish and Black Sea Region cuisine, which offers an abundance of flavors and tastes. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Karalahana (Black Cabbage) Salad: A nutritious salad that consists of black cabbage leaves, walnuts, and yoghurt sauce.
  • Hibeş: A traditional dish that is made from tahini sauce, red pepper paste, and garlic.
  • Mısır Unu Helvası (Cornmeal Halva): A sweet and buttery dessert that is made from cornmeal and sugar syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Rize Tea: A popular tea that is grown in the neighboring city of Rize, famous for its rich and woody aroma.
  • Cezerye: A sweet and nutty drink that is made from carrot, sugar, and hazelnuts.

Where to Stay in Giresun: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Giresun offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, there’s a place for everyone. Some of the best options are:

  • Hilton Garden Inn Giresun: A luxurious hotel that features amenities like a fitness center, pool, restaurant, and a bar.
  • Grand Otel Alacahan: A budget-friendly hotel that is located in the city center and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Otel Berekat: A cozy guesthouse that offers a homey atmosphere and features a beautiful garden.

What to Buy in Giresun: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Giresun is known for many local souvenirs and products that make for excellent gifts to bring back home. Here are some of the most popular items:

  • Turkish Delight: A local sweet that is available in different varieties and flavors, such as rose, pistachio, and lemon.
  • Kuymak: A local cheese dish that is made from cornmeal and cheese and is often served with butter.
  • Black Tea: A popular tea that is grown in the neighboring city of Rize and has a rich aroma and taste.

Local Culture and Customs of Giresun

Giresun’s local culture is influenced by the Black Sea Region’s unique culture and customs that are preserved to this day, seen in traditional houses, festivals, and other aspects of daily life.

Best Time to Visit Giresun

The best time to visit Giresun is from May to August, with temperatures between 22-30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, and trekking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Giresun

Do:

  • Follow local customs and etiquettes, such as removing shoes before entering a mosque or a home.
  • Respect the natural environment and keep it clean.
  • Bargain while shopping at local markets and bazaars.

Don’t:

  • Avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled water.
  • Don’t wear revealing outfits while visiting historical sites or mosques.
  • Don’t disrespect the Turkish flag or any other national symbols.

Safety and Health

Safety in Giresun

Giresun is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take precautions like keeping your valuables safe and following traffic rules when crossing the streets.

Health in Giresun

Giresun has multiple health centers and hospitals that offer quality medical care to residents and tourists in case of any emergency.

Getting to Giresun: Transportation Options and Logistics

Giresun is well-connected to other cities in Turkey with multiple transportation options, including flights, buses, and cars.

Airports Near Giresun

The nearest airport to Giresun is Trabzon International Airport, which is 95 kilometers away from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Giresun

The city has a central bus station, which connects the city to other parts of Turkey.

Other Options

Renting a car is a great option if you want to explore Giresun’s surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Giresun

Giresun is a small city that can be easily explored on foot or by using public transportation such as buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Giresun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Giresun is a great starting point for exploring the Black Sea Region’s beauty. Some of the most popular destinations include:

  • Ordu: A neighboring city that offers stunning beaches, lush green mountains, and historical sites.
  • Trabzon: A vibrant coastal city known for its cultural significance, including historical monasteries and delicious Akçaabat Meatballs.

Conclusion

From the rugged mountains to serene beaches and delicious food, Giresun has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide is designed to help you plan your Giresun vacation, covering everything from places to visit and things to do, to food, culture, and safety. So, start packing your bags and get ready to explore this amazing Turkish city!

Mavi Göl from above Mavi Göl from above